FAA Official Resigns After Series of Air Traffic Failures

Hank Krakowski, head of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Air Traffic Organization (ATO), the part of the FAA charged with operating the air traffic control system, has resigned. Krakowski’s resignation follows series of failures in the operation of the air traffic control system. In a statement by Bruce Babbit, FAA administrator, the agency pledged a probe of the failures that have raised fears for passenger safety.

“Over the last few weeks we have seen examples of unprofessional conduct on the part of a few individuals that have rightly caused the traveling public to question our ability to ensure their safety. This conduct must stop immediately. I am committed to maintaining the highest level of public confidence and that begins with strong leadership,” Babbit said.

David Grizzle, FAA’s chief counsel, will assume the role of acting ATO chief operating officer.

“We are conducting a top to bottom review of the way we operate our air traffic control system. We are all responsible and accountable for safety—from senior FAA leadership to the controller in the tower. Employees at the FAA work diligently every day to run the safest air transportation system in the world. But I will continue to make whatever changes are necessary to ensure we concentrate on keeping the traveling public safe,” Babbit said.